how does your garden grow?

Friday was Cole’s Moving On Ceremony. Moving On celebrates the end of elementary school and the transition to middle school without the full pomp rightfully reserved for high school graduation. It was a sweet, poignant event. Included in the program was an opportunity for the parents to thank the teachers for all they had done.

This isn’t an exact transcript of what I said on behalf of the families, but nearly so. I’ve only edited out the sniffles and tears that choked me along the way.

Moving. Stretching. Growing, Becoming.

Each grade has encompassed these traits – from the first day of Beginning School until today. But fifth grade holds a unique position – the capstone of one experience, the gateway to the next. And so the teaching of this age requires deft skill – global vision, high expectations, a light yet firm hand. Challenging and nurturing students simultaneously.

It is rare to find a single individual who has the traits required to teach, guide and inspire young learners. And nearly impossible to imagine a trio of such teachers, each bringing complimentary talents that create a trifecta of excellence. And yet, here they are.

This spring, the kindergarteners had caterpillars in their classrooms. Caterpillars. Cocoons. Butterflies.

These bouquets of flowers are for our teachers – a thank you for the beautiful academic gardens you grew in your classrooms. Thank you for being such attentive gardeners to these 45 young butterflies. Watching over them, nourishing them as they emerged from their cocoons this year. Stretching. Growing, Becoming, Now taking flight.

Moving On.

Thank you.

While this was a thank you written to three fifth grade teachers, it is, truly, a thank you to every teacher, everywhere. The difference you make in the life of each child is incalculable. A posy of gratitude to each of you.